Uefa Champions League NewsHaaland outshines PSG stars in Champions League last-16 tie.
Post image

Haaland continued to display his remarkable scoring form this season with two more goals to award Borussia an advantage over Paris St-Germain in their Champions League last-16 tie.

Haaland300x164

The 19-year-old Haaland showed two distinct sides of his impressive game with two second-half strikes. The first was a predatory finish after Raphael Guerreiro’s shot was blocked and the second a left-footed thunderbolt from 20 yards.

The two goals took his tally for the season to a stunning 39 goals in only 29 appearances.

In between Haaland’s goals, Neymar briefly drew the visitors’ level. The Brazilian slotted in a low Kylian Mbappe’s cross on his return following four matches out with a rib injury.

Consequently, he was outshined by Haaland. The Norwegian gave the German side a deserved positive display and a narrow lead to take to the Parc des Princes for the second leg on March 11.

PSG can and should be better

The French title is becoming an increasing formality season on season for PSG. Nonetheless, the club’s progress is measured by their Champions League performance. In that regard, they have plateaued, exiting at this stage on each of the past three campaigns.

There has been a sense that this time round things may be different under Tuchel. This is a more balanced PSG side than previous iterations. PSG is tougher to break down as evidenced by their concession of only two goals in six group games this season.

On his feet, the Neymar was a constant menace. Dropping deep to gather the ball before driving at pace at an increasingly fearful defense.

He flashed an early free-kick wide, rewarded for his alertness to tap home the equalizer and could have dragged his side level again late in the game with a fierce shot that struck the outside of the post.

Ultimately, PSG did not create enough chances. Di Maria missed for large periods and Mbappe a disappointment despite the assist goal.

The Ligue 1 leaders have another chance to put things right. However, they are once again faced with the prospect of an exit way earlier than their lavish outlay demands.